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Public Records Requests

The Louisiana Public Records Act allows citizens to access certain records that are used during the operation of governmental agencies in the state. La. R.S. 44:1 – 44:41 defines public records, cites exemptions, and describes how public records may be examined.

To obtain a public record

There are two ways to submit a public records request to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

Fill out the public records request form at the bottom of this page that, when completed, is automatically sent to the University’s custodian of records. The form collects the requestor’s name, contact information, a description of the public records being sought, and the date or time frame of those records.

Requests may be made directly to the University’s Office of Communications and Marketing in person, by phone, by mail or email. However, a requestor is encouraged to make a request in writing to help the University determine what documents are responsive. The request should include the requestor’s name, contact information, a description of the public records being sought, and the date or time frame of those records.

The University’s protocol

The Office of Communications and Marketing acknowledges requests it receives. If there is a question about whether a document is a public record, it will, within three days – except Saturday, Sunday and legal public holidays – provide in writing its reasons for denying access, based on the Public Records Act. Please note that the University is also closed Friday afternoons.

Exemptions to the Public Records Act

La. R.S. 44:1 – 44:41 cites numerous records that are not covered by the Public Records Act.

Exemptions include, for example:

certain information about state personnel that is protected by the right of privacy guaranteed by Article I, Section 5 of the Louisiana Constitution,

certain documents related to pending criminal investigations, and

documents pertaining to security procedures.

Many records related to individual students are protected by state and federal privacy laws, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy.